Sierra Leonean Chef Kumzee Completes 163-Hour Cooking Marathon

Sierra Leonean chef Kumba Sinah, known as Chef Kumzee, has successfully completed a 163-hour cooking marathon at Kabbana on Lumley Beach Road in Freetown. The event aimed to break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual and highlight the determination and creativity of young people in Sierra Leone. Kumzee's achievement showcases her considerable stamina and dedication to her craft.

The cooking marathon, which lasted six days and 19 hours, ended with a celebration featuring popular rapper King Boss La and Season 4 winner of Housemates Salone, Suad Baydoun, alongside Kumzee's supporters. Despite facing challenges securing financial and logistical support, Chef Kumzee's resolve transformed her personal goal into a celebrated national event. Her achievement raises questions about how Sierra Leoneans can leverage their talents to gain recognition and create opportunities.

Kumzee, also the founder of My Food by Kumzee, announced her cookathon starting on November 5, 2026, with hopes of breaking the previous record of 140 hours, 11 minutes, and 11 seconds, held by Liberian-Australian chef Evette Quoibia. While she has reportedly surpassed this mark, Guinness World Records must now verify her claim and ensure all criteria were met. The verification process will confirm whether Kumzee's achievement meets the required standards.

Kumzee's challenge not only underscores the potential within Sierra Leone's culinary scene but also highlights how communal support can help achieve ambitious goals. Her story serves as inspiration for others aiming for extraordinary achievements. Aspiring entrepreneurs, artists, and researchers can take cues from her journey, emphasising the importance of identifying talents, setting measurable goals, and preparing thoroughly.

As excitement surrounds Kumzee's accomplishment, it is crucial to remember that her experience is an opportunity to foster investment in culinary training and entrepreneurship, particularly for young women. The culinary arts, often overshadowed by sports and music, may see increased public interest following Kumzee's achievement. This could lead to new opportunities for young Sierra Leoneans in the culinary industry.

Whether or not Guinness World Records officially recognises Kumzee's marathon, she has marked a significant milestone, leaving a message for others: with skill, preparation, and support, ambitious goals can indeed be reached. Kumzee's achievement has sparked a sense of national pride and inspired others to pursue their passions. Her story will likely continue to motivate young Sierra Leoneans to aim high and work towards their goals.

The impact of Kumzee's achievement will be felt in the coming weeks and months as young Sierra Leoneans begin to explore opportunities in the culinary arts. With the right support and resources, they may be able to build on Kumzee's success and create their own paths to recognition and achievement. As the nation looks to the future, Kumzee's story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within every individual.

Key points

• Chef Kumzee completed a 163-hour cooking marathon in Freetown, seeking a Guinness World Record and inspiring young Sierra Leoneans.